FAQ: Inserts and Lifting Hardware

The TCA Technical Committee provides answers to common questions about Tilt-Up construction as well as some tips and techniques.

How are inserts held in place during casting of the panels?

They should be firmly wired to the reinforcing steel so that they won't be displaced during the placing and vibration operations. You should not attempt to wet-set these inserts for any reason.

Are there any precautions necessary with inserts?

They should be accurately located vertically, horizontally and for depth.

They should not be placed closer than one foot from any edge or opening.

They should not be placed in line vertically with the brace inserts that might interfere during the panel setting.

The concrete should be vibrated well around the inserts.

There should be a positive method of preventing concrete from entering the attachment portion of the insert.

If there is need to move a lifting insert, consult the erection engineer for proper relocation

What are the safety factors for lifting and bracing inserts?

The Federal OSHA and American National Standards Institute use a two-to-one safety factor inclusive of all loads for Tilt-Up, and a four-to-one safety factor for precast lifting inserts. Bracing inserts do not have a standard, but manufacturers and designers normally Up one-and-a-half-to-one or two-to-one.

Are there any safety checks required with erection hardware?

Make sure all hardware is in good working order, unbent and free of cuts and defects.

If coil bolts are used, be certain all bolts are unbent, have washers, and penetrate clear through the coil.

If hardware is used that bears on the panel surface, be certain it bears well, using grout pads if necessary with exposed aggregate or textures.

Any strongbacks or added reinforcing specified for lifting must be correctly in place at the time of the erection.

All cables, hooks, swivels, and bails must be free to rotate in the line of action or the load.

What are the tolerances of placing the inserts?

The inserts should be placed within one inch horizontally and vertically, and within ¼" for depth.

Still have questions?

Feel free to contact the TCA by phone at (319) 895-6911. We look forward to talking with you!

About the TCA

Founded in 1986, the Tilt-Up Concrete Association (TCA) strives to improve the quality and acceptance of site-cast Tilt-Up construction, a method in which concrete wall panels are cast on-site and tilted into place. Tilt-Up construction is one of the fastest growing industries in the United States, combining the advantages of reasonable cost with low maintenance, durability, speed of construction and minimal capital investment. At least 10,000 buildings, enclosing more than 650 million square feet, are constructed each year using this construction method.

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